For more than a century, the one-cylinder Cadillac, launched as a 1903 model, has maintained its reputation as a superior early American car.

Its engine, an improved and refined derivative of the Curved Dash Oldsmobile powerplant, was developed by pioneer automaker Henry M.

Leland—motordom’s “Master of Precision.” The horizontally mounted engine displaced 98.2 cubic inches.

Nominally rated at 10 horsepower, its actual output was greater.

A two-speed planetary transmission was standard.

The 1906 one-cylinder Cadillac offered exhibits the revised frontal appearance that marked the single-cylinder models through the end of their production in 1908.

The Cadillac script identification gracing the car’s front was new for 1906, as well.

The two-passenger Runabout model was distinguished by its tulip-shaped rear deck.

In 1908, a trio of one-cylinder Cadillacs won the prestigious British Dewar trophy, in recognition of their manufacturing consistency.

This award provided the basis for ...